The making of a movement.

For years now, Thanksgiving, a day set aside for kindness, family, and gratitude, has been immediately trailed by the discount-driven shopping holidays, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Four years ago, in response to the largely embraced retail events, a cultural center in New York City created an inclusive annual celebration of unity and community, two of the most important themes of the holiday season.

With the goal of elevating generosity efforts across the nation, #GivingTuesday has snowballed over the past few years thanks, in large part, to social media. The message is simple and applicable to all: Use your time, talents and skills, or money to change your community and the world.

Leave your mark.

This year, #GivingTuesday falls on December 1, 2015. Individuals, families, businesses, community centers, students, friends and neighbors around the world are encouraged to find opportunities to join the movement and celebrate this heartfelt holiday. Looking for a way to get involved? More than 30,000 partners in 68 countries have officially committed to participate. Follow #GivingTuesday on your favorite social media platforms to see their calls for action. Here are some other suggestions for spreading the spirit of the holiday:  

7 ways to celebrate #GivingTuesday

• Help a neighbor with something that is difficult for them to do by themselves.
• Volunteer for a project through Neighborlink, an organization that helps connect local needs to individuals who want to make a difference.
• Take time to research volunteer opportunities with organizations that match your interests. Check out Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana, your local United Way and Habitat for Humanity.
• Sign up to become a Parkview volunteer
• Donate to support the healing touch of generosity and quality of life through the Parkview Foundations.
• Share about a time you supported an organization that was meaningful to you, and have a chance to win $5,000! – Visit for more info.
• Use social media to share how you’re participating, and don’t forget to use #GivingTuesday and #UNselfie in your posts.

The #GivingTuesday movement reminds us that generosity is important to the quality of the lives around us, not just on this one day, but all year long. And the benefits go beyond the social impact. Studies show that generosity can reduce stress, conquer feelings of loneliness, and have a direct effect on your overall health.

So, mark your calendar and get your family, community and company in the #GivingTuesday spirit on Tuesday, December 1. After all, being a part of a global celebration and a new tradition of generosity is, in our opinion, the greatest gift of all!